Choosing the Right Major: A Data-Driven Approach
Your choice of major doesn't lock you into one career forever, but it does influence your early opportunities. Here's how to make an informed decision.
Start With Self-Assessment
Interests
What subjects do you lose track of time studying?What topics do you read about voluntarily?Take the Holland Code (RIASEC) assessment for structured insight
Skills
What are you naturally good at?What skills do you want to develop?Consider both hard skills (math, writing, coding) and soft skills (leadership, communication)
Values
What matters to you in a career? (Income, flexibility, impact, creativity, stability)How important is work-life balance vs. high earnings?
Use Career Data
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Check projected job growth for careers that interest youReview median salaries by occupationUnderstand which degrees are required for entry
College Scorecard
Compare earnings outcomes by major at specific schoolsReview debt-to-earnings ratios
O*NET Online
Explore detailed occupation profilesUnderstand day-to-day tasks for different careersCheck AI and automation risk for long-term viability
Exploration Strategies
**Take introductory courses** in 3–4 areas before declaring**Talk to professionals** in fields that interest you (informational interviews)**Shadow or intern** to test your interest before committing**Visit the career center** — they have assessment tools and advisors**Talk to upperclassmen** in majors you're considering
Common Misconceptions
**"I have to decide freshman year"** — Most schools allow you to declare sophomore year**"STEM is the only path to a good salary"** — Business, healthcare, and skilled trades also pay well**"My major = my career"** — Many professionals work in fields unrelated to their major**"I should pick the highest-paying major"** — Burnout from pursuing something you hate costs more long-term
A Balanced Framework
Rate each potential major on a 1–5 scale for:
**Interest** — How much do you enjoy the subject?**Aptitude** — Are you likely to succeed academically?**Opportunity** — What's the job market like?**Earnings** — Does the typical salary meet your financial goals?**Flexibility** — Can this major lead to multiple career paths?
The major that scores highest across all five dimensions is likely your best fit.
